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Invasive Species Threaten Native Wildlife and Pets: Cane Toads and Burmese Pythons

Bruno Halpern
/
WGCU

A recent study by scientists with the University of Florida and the U.S. Geological Survey finds that Burmese pythons may be foraging on wading bird nesting rookeries in the Everglades. The research is published in PLOS One.

The study’s lead author, Sophie Orzechowski, performed this research as part of her recently completed master’s degree in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida.

Plus,  cane toads are invasive species brought to the U.S. in an effort to protect sugar cane fields from pests. Now they present danger to pets and local wildlife. The toads, as well as Burmese pythons, are throwing off the Southwest Florida ecosystem.

Associate professor and undergraduate program coordinator at the University of Florida’s Department of Wildlife Ecology & Conservation, Dr. Steve A. Johnson, joins the conservation to discuss the dangers of cane toads and ways to protect your pets.